Whanganui's new Castlecliff Health medical facility under way

Castlecliff Health's new clinic six weeks into construction. Photo/ Stuart Munro

As Whanganui's new medical facility edges closer to completion, enrolments for new patients have opened and an influx in medical staff is being promised.

Four months ago Castlecliff Health was running the risk of closure, causing concern for the clinic's 2400 patients, 86 per cent of whom were in high need.

But after initially rejecting resource consent for the clinic's new site on Rakau Rd, Whanganui District Council finally gave the go-ahead and construction started six weeks ago.

Castlecliff Health owner and general practitioner (GP) Praveen Thadigiri said builders had been on track and they hoped to open early next year.

Castlecliff Health's new clinic on Rakau Rd in the making. Photo/ Stuart Munro

"We will have eight consultation rooms, a separate treatment room for minor surgical procedures and one room dedicated to management of emergencies."

He said a lot of his patients had asked how the project was going and had even gone for a driveby.

"Everyone has been really supportive and stood strong behind us. Nothing like this has happened in Whanganui in private hands for many years so it is exciting for the community."

Dr Thadigiri bought the business in 2014 from Dr Saravanapavan, and moved to Carson St where Te Waipuna Medical Centre used to be before they moved to the city centre.

He said just six months later there was a high demand for the primary health service and significant investment was required to attract more health professionals to the suburb.

"Ironically the clinic had been able to attract health professionals, but the space has been constraint."

New Government standards were also putting pressure on a need for a revamp.

"This project means taking on new patients has been made possible and we will be taking on new staff from GPs, nurse practitioners and nurse.

"It's an investment into the future of health care for Whanganui."